Laughter echoed through the school hall and hearts swelled with pride as the annual Different is Cool Fashion Show unfolded in full colour at Brackenfell Primary School last weekend. More than just a fashion show, this annual event is a celebration of courage and the beautiful spirit of children with special needs.
As the young models stepped onto the catwalk with their siblings, all dressed in vibrant clothing from The Foschini Group (TFG) there was no doubt that this was their moment to shine.
For these children, many of whom face daily challenges, the stage wasn’t just a platform, it was a declaration of strength and joy.
This heartwarming event, now a cherished legacy project of NPO Daniel and Friends, has grown from humble beginnings into a loved tradition.
Superhero
Emphasising unity and resilience, this year’s theme was Marvel’s Fantastic Four superhero team. In her address to the moms and dads, ambassadors and other supporters director Lianie le Roux expressed her gratitude.
“We are a family that I am so thankful to be a part of. A family related by shared experiences, dreams and hopes. Of belonging. A family, where we can share the highs and sometimes the lows. A special needs community,” she said.
“We have seen our families grow in confidence, welcoming new families with open arms and supporting them in guiding the sometimes unknown after a new diagnoses was received. We are so proud of this community. Of our families, our Board, our Ambassadors. Everyone that is involved, and the network we have built. We believe that it doesn’t matter your abilities, your looks. Everyone’s hearts are the same – filled with love, acceptance, friendship and so much more. Every disability truly has a possibility.”
Le Roux thanked the TFG group for their involvement in the project since 2017.
“They are the inspiration behind our themes every year, and it takes months of hard work and planning. This year, with our very cool Fantastic Four theme, they again did not disappoint.
Several quotes from the Fantastic Four comics and movies offer inspiration, often highlighting themes of family, courage, and overcoming adversity. One prominent example is “We will face this together. We will fight it together… as a family, I am not giving up”.
In her turn, co-director Kate Laurie thanked every child, parent, ambassador and supporter for walking the journey with the organisation in the true spirit of inclusion.
